Summary:

The treatment approach to managing patients with dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is only through symptom control. The pathophysiology is not entirely known, and there is no drug available to prevent or cure the disorder. All FDA-approved drugs work by modulating neurotransmitters, either acetylcholine or glutamate. The two basic classes of drugs used to manage symptoms of AD are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AcHEI) and partial N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists. In addition, medications to control mood and behavior are used. These drugs are used to relieve depression, agitation, and insomnia, and include antidepressants, neuroleptics, anxiolytics, and anticonvulsants. As more research is completed and data collected, possible links to genetics, nutrition, and chemical entities may provide insight into future modes of therapy.

Objectives:

The goal of this dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) continuing education program is to provide pharmacists and physicians with knowledge about the clinical aspects of managing patients with AD. After studying the information presented here, you will be able to:

Describe the approved drugs used to treat patients with AD

List the available drug treatments for secondary features of AD

Discuss supplements and nonpharmacologic interventions used in managing symptoms of AD

Review emerging therapies and areas of research for AD

Accreditation Information

This course is intended for multiple professions, including pharmacists, pharmacy techs, and physicians.

Pharmacists: Take this version of the course to ensure you receive appropriate credit.

In support of improving patient care, OnCourse Learning is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

OnCourse Learning is also approved by the Florida Board of Pharmacy (provider # 50-1489).

Unless stated above, the planners and authors of this course have declared no relevant conflicts of interest that relate to this educational activity. OnCourse Learning guarantees this educational activity is free from bias.

This course completion will be electronically reported to CE Broker as required per Florida Statute 456.025(7). Click here to view your CE Broker transcript and check the status of your CE requirements with a FREE 7-day CE Broker trial subscription. It may take up to 24 hours for the course to appear on your CE Broker transcript.

It is now required that all CE is completed and reported to CE Broker before you renew your license. When you complete continuing education with us, OnCourse Learning will report your hours for you.

Please check the licenses/certifications section under my account (after logging in) to make sure you have entered a valid FL license number. This information is required for correct reporting of your course completions to CE Broker.